Ladder Safety Guide
- alexkabacy4
- Jan 16
- 3 min read
Ladder safety is a topic that is easy to neglect because let’s be honest, how hard is it to use a ladder? According to OSHA, it turns out it’s pretty hard. OSHA has over 70 requirements regarding ladder safety, we won’t be going over all the requirements, but we will be going over what you need to know as an employer to keep your employees safe on the job site.
Load Bearing
The first section that OSHA covers is the load that a ladder must be able to support. In general, each ladder, self-supporting or not that your employees use should be able to support 4x the maximum intended load. Additionally, each step or rung should be able to support at least 250 pounds. When testing the load bearing of a ladder, it’s important to apply force in a downward vertical direction in the middle of each rung.
Rungs
In terms of the rungs or steps of the ladder, make sure that each rung is level and parallel to one another. Do NOT step on a rung that appears crooked. In terms of spacing, this should go without saying, but each rung should be the evenly spaced apart, so your worker doesn’t lose their footing. For most ladders, each rung should be no less than 10 inches apart and no more than 14 inches. There are a few exceptions; step stools are outlined as no less than 8 inches and no more than 12 inches. Extension trestle ladders should be no less than 8 inches and no more than 18 inches, while the extended section can be no less than 6 inches and no more than 12 inches. This is a lot of numbers, but most ladders already will meet this requirement straight from the factory. Bottom line is, if the spacing of the rungs look too small or too big than it probably is.
Additionally, all ladders manufactured after March 15, 1991, should be “corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material, or otherwise treated to minimize slipping.” This goes for all types of ladders, portable, metal, extension, etc.
The Ladder
For portable and step ladders, there must be a metal locking device that keeps the ladder from folding. Also, unless it is specified by the manufacturer, you should never try to extend a ladder by tying another ladder to it...yes OSHA actually outlines this which means that someone must have tried this for it to become a regulation...right? The ladders themselves shouldn’t be slippery with any oil or grease; they should also not be placed on a surface that would cause the ladder to slip or slide. Additionally, you should have a clear area beneath you just in case of a fall, so nothing that could impale you or injure you.
There are more regulations on the ladder itself, but one of the most important things that OSHA discusses is the use of safety devices if the ladder extends past a certain point. If a ladder extends past 24 feet, then you must have a safety device to accompany the ladder. This could either be a self-retracting lifeline, a cage, or a well. Either way, there must also be rest platforms in case your worker gets tired. The interval of these platforms varies depending on the safety device you have. A self-retracting lifeline must not exceed 150 feet between each platform, while a cage or well must not exceed 50 feet.
A few more important details: the top step of a ladder should never be used. If you have a wood ladder, there must be a coating to avoid splinters. Additionally, and while this seems elementary, a ladder should not be moved while it is occupied. You can also do a drop test with your ladder. Ladders should be durable enough to survive a fall without problems. If it doesn’t survive the fall, you should clearly and immediatelymark the ladder with “Do Not Use” designated it for all as a “broken ladder.”
We know, this is a lot of rules and even more numbers, but this is only a small portion of what OSHA has listed for their regulations. If you’ve made it to the end, thanks for reading! If you want exact wording, regulations, and numbers, visit the link to the OSHA page below and don’t forget to keep your workers safe and informed!
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